Preservative (formaldehyde releaser)
POLYMETHOXY BICYCLIC OXAZOLIDINE
Safety score · 0–100
Caution
Derived from EU CosIng regulatory status, PubChem hazard data and published research. How we score.
An oxazolidine preservative that works by slowly releasing formaldehyde. Effective against microbes but raises sensitization and carcinogenicity concerns, with safer alternatives available.
Skin benefits
- Functions as a formaldehyde-releasing preservative against bacteria and fungi
- Effective at low concentrations in water-containing products
- Provides broad-spectrum microbial control
Known concerns
- Releases formaldehyde, a recognized human carcinogen by IARC
- Well documented skin sensitizer in formaldehyde-allergic individuals
- Increasingly restricted in EU cosmetics, requires warning labels
- Better-tolerated preservative systems are now widely available
References
EU CosIng database
European Commission cosmetic ingredient registry: regulatory status, restrictions, authorised functions.
Related preservative (formaldehyde releaser)s
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This profile is for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Regulatory status and scientific understanding evolve, so always read the physical product label and consult a healthcare professional for personal concerns.